Contents
Introduction
Pappardelle with chicken is a delightful Italian dish that combines tender pasta with juicy chicken, creating a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a dinner party, this pappardelle recipe is versatile and easy to prepare.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 300 grams pappardelle pasta
- 400 grams chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 200 grams cherry tomatoes, halved
- A handful of fresh basil, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
Prep Time
The preparation time for this dish is approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to gather all the ingredients and prepare them for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this recipe is around 20 minutes. In total, from prep to plating, it takes about 30 minutes to make this dish. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it a perfect option for a small gathering or family meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Chicken
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pappardelle to the skillet. Toss well to combine all the ingredients. Add chopped basil and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few extra basil leaves if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Pasta Choices
You can substitute pappardelle with other pasta types such as fettuccine or tagliatelle, depending on your preference.
Note 2: Chicken Variations
Feel free to use different cuts of chicken or even substitute chicken with turkey or a plant-based alternative.
Note 3: Extra Vegetables
Adding other vegetables like spinach or zucchini can enhance the dish’s nutritional value and flavor.
Note 4: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a technique used to cook food quickly in a small amount of oil or butter over relatively high heat. This method is ideal for cooking chicken, as it allows for even browning and adds flavor.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking foods in liquid at a low heat, just below the boiling point. It is often used to develop flavors in sauces and to ensure that proteins become tender.
Deglazing
Deglazing is the process of adding liquid to a pan to loosen and dissolve browned bits of food that are stuck to the bottom. This enhances the flavor of the sauce or dish being prepared.
Pasta Cooking
Cooking pasta properly involves boiling it in salted water until it reaches the desired level of doneness. It is important to reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce later.
Meal Preparation
Meal preparation is the act of organizing and preparing ingredients before cooking. This can include chopping vegetables, measuring spices, and pre-cooking certain items to streamline the cooking process.
Plating
Plating refers to the art of arranging food on a plate in an aesthetically pleasing way. It enhances the dining experience and highlights the various components of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of pappardelle?
Yes, you can substitute other types of pasta, such as fettuccine or tagliatelle, but the cooking time may vary.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
You can use turkey, or for a vegetarian option, consider using mushrooms or tofu.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
You can thicken the sauce by simmering it longer to reduce the liquid or by adding a cornstarch slurry.
What sides pair well with pappardelle?
A simple green salad or garlic bread complements pappardelle nicely, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Conclusion
Pappardelle with chicken is a delightful dish that combines the richness of the pasta with tender chicken and savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, bringing a taste of comfort and satisfaction. With its delightful flavors and appealing presentation, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pappardelle with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Swap chicken for mushrooms in a creamy sauce for a vegetarian twist on this classic dish.
Pappardelle with Shrimp and Pesto
Combine juicy shrimp and vibrant pesto for a fresh and aromatic variation that’s perfect for seafood lovers.
Pappardelle with Italian Sausage
Enhance the dish with spicy or sweet Italian sausage for a hearty and flavorful experience.
Pappardelle with Roasted Vegetables
Add an assortment of seasonal vegetables to create a colorful and nutritious meal that highlights fresh produce.
Pappardelle with Spinach and Ricotta
Mix in fresh spinach and creamy ricotta for a rich and satisfying variation that’s also great for a meatless option.
